Local author releases book set in Brown County

Green Bay author Rae Wetzel is celebrating the upcoming release of her new novel, An Ordinary Girl’s Life, a coming-of-age story set in Ashwaubenon, Green Bay and the surrounding areas in 1964.

Part memoir and part historical fiction, the novel follows the story of Marlee Becker, an ordinary girl growing up in the Midwest, in the shadow of a professional football team during the 1960s and 1970s, dealing with the impact of a tragic event early in life
Check out the Q&A below to learn more about Wetzel and her book:

Your book is part memoir, part historical fiction. How much of the book is actually true?
Most of the story is true. I estimate that 75-80% actually happened. Much of the dialogue is definitely imagined.

How long did it take you to write your book?
It took me three years to write my book. I had to learn a lot about writing on the fly, such as syntax, tenses, and brushing up on basic grammar and punctuation. My narrative required a fair bit of research to verify my timeline and facts.

How did your siblings feel about you writing your family’s story?
My family is supportive, and has been throughout the entire process. My sister was extremely helpful and patient as I bounced so much off of her. My brothers, though they fielded many questions, could have made my story even more interesting had they read my manuscript, but I understand why they chose not to.

What was your motivation behind writing your book?

My motivation to write my book stems from my belief that I always knew I had a story to tell. I thought people would be interested in the tragedy my family endured, the unusual circumstances that followed, and the fact that I grew up in a neighborhood with many kids in a simpler time. That is the type of story I find interesting. I like stories about everyday, ordinary people, and I’ve heard it said, “Write what you want to read.” Lastly, I believed that sharing my story might be cathartic and complete my cycle of healing.